John Stones to Arsenal? Saliba blow forces Arteta move

Arsenal are planning to sign a new centre back to support their backline and John Stones is the most prominent name to be discussed. They need another central defender because William Saliba picked up a back injury during World Cup. After losing one of their the best centre backs, they are active in the market. Along with John Stones, Ezri Konsa’s name is also coming out but there is a huge price gap.

Who between John Stones and Ezri Konsa could join Arsenal?

Arsenal centre back William Saliba picked up a back injury in the World Cup semi final between France and Spain. France eventually lost that game but Arsenal faced a major setback through Saliba’s injury. Arsenal’s club website has officially informed that surgery is not required for the 25-year-old. But he will serve his rehabilitation period. The Gunners defender will be sidelined for a long time.

As reported by The Athletic, English defender John Stones is available in the market as a free agent. His contract with Man City has expired in June, 2026. The Englishman is also in Chelsea’s transfer shortlist. Arsenal may have a slight upper hand over the Blues in this transfer move as Arteta and Stones have a good relationship. The Spanish coach was the assistant of Pep Guardiola at Man City previously. Arteta worked with the 32-year-old at City at that time.

Ezri Konsa is also a potential option in the list. The 28-year-old, being younger than Stones and having two years left in his Villa contract, could cost more. Arsenal had enquired about the total expense of the deal. They found a massive gap in price with Aston Villa. Both the English defenders have played a significant role in the World Cup. They justify their versatility by being able to play as a right back also.

Key Statistic:

John Stones’ stats in 2025-26 season for Manchester City, according to FOTMOB:

Mikel Arteta has appreciated John Stones

Addition of John Stones to the Arsenal squad could be ideal. Arteta has already worked with him in Premier League and therefore he knows his profile. Moreover, he is available as a free agent. So, no transfer fees need to be paid. The Gunners just need to agree personal terms with the defender. On top of that, Stones has been part of Guardiola’s Man City for 10 years and has won 18 trophies, according to Transfermarkt.

As reported by Sky Sports, Mikel Arteta has praised Stones as he has seen him closely. Arsenal manager said, “John is a player I really like. We followed him before we signed him when I was at City. I worked with him for many years. I know him well and when I look at centre-backs, he has many attributes that I like.” Stones could be a good alternative to Saliba while he serves his recovery period.

But the Englishman’s injury record could raise problems. He featured in just 9 Premier League games in 2025-26 season and 11 games in 2024-25 campaign, according to FOTMOB. As reported by TEAMtalk, Aston Villa, Leeds and Everton are also interested in the former Man City defender.

Ezri Konsa’s deal is a hard nut to crack

The Aston Villa defender is an aggressive defender who is well suited to Premier League football. His physical abilities and clean injury record would make him a fantastic signing. Konsa is press resistant and can operate in a possession based system. But convincing Aston Villa to sell him would be difficult as Unai Emery’s side has set a £60m price tag on him.

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Subhabrata Pal

Subhabrata Pal is a Junior Football Writer at Six Sports, covering developments across domestic and international football. His work focuses on match reports, player performances, and important updates from major football competitions.

Through his contributions at Six Sports, Subhabrata writes football news stories, match-focused coverage, and analytical pieces that highlight team performances, standout players, and key moments shaping the sport.